On the recordDecember 8, 2020
Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Larson) for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 578, the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, which ensures that individuals who are diagnosed with ALS are not forced to wait to receive the Social Security Disability benefits that they have earned and they so desperately need. The onset of a disability can be a difficult, challenging, and often disorienting time. However, by eliminating the 5-month waiting period for ALS patients to receive disability benefits, we can help families facing this difficult diagnosis focus on their health and well-being instead of worrying about how to keep a roof over their head or put food on the table. Madam Speaker, I applaud my good friend and colleague, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, for championing this bipartisan effort in the Senate. He has been a strong voice for the ALS community as co-chair of the Senate ALS Caucus, and I have been proud to work with him on this legislation. Madam Speaker, I also recognize our colleague here, Representative Seth Moulton, for his leadership as well. Madam Speaker, I also want to recognize one of my constituents, Christa Thompson, who has been a dedicated crusader for the ALS community. Christa knows the struggle all too well, as she has watched her husband, Olin, battle this devastating disease.…





